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Century and Gran Fondo Training – Podcast #41

Last time on the Tailwind Coaching Podcast I talked about how to get started with road racing.  So far, I've received a lot of positive commentary on it, but a number of people felt that I was leaving some things out.  Comments were made to the effect of “What about gran fondos?” and “What about centuries?”

I realize that the majority of cyclists out there aren't racers, but still find joy in searching out tests of their endurance, climbing or overall fitness.  Many of those ways involve planning for a century or gran fondo.  Do you want to complete that event, or do you want to CRUSH that event?

In today's podcast, I'll discuss what you need to know to not only be successful in pursuit of that goal, but to shatter your expectations.  I'll cover:

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Being A Better Criterium Racer (Podcast #38)

Racing season is well and truly upon us, and here in the US we have a glut of the fast, closed circuit racing known as criterium racing.  Run on race courses that are generally less than 3K in length (that's about 1.8 miles or so), most crits are full of fast corners, accelerations, twitchy riders and (unfortunately) crashes.

Many people cut their teeth on criterium racing in Category 5, which can be prone to certain “issues.”  Because anyone with a bike and helmet can sign up to race cat 5, simple things like learning where to put your hands, braking safely, how to corner or how to hold a line are always suspect.  Taking the next step of knowing when to attack and simply how to train your energy systems to handle the rigors of crit racing are a few of the more advanced things you can do to be a stronger and safer crit racer.  Trust me, all those around you will thank you for it.

In today's podcast, I'll cover the following:

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Exploration By Bike

High Bridge NJ Tunnel[dc]A[/dc]s I mentioned a while back (in Bike Therapy,) in the past two and a half years my life has transitioned from the quiet contemplation of the Hudson Valley to the hustle and bustle of New Jersey.  Along with the change of location came a change in scenery; familiar roads were gone, trusted bike shops were distant, and new relationships had to be formed.  While there's trepidation in the unknown, there was also a distinct thrill of discovering new places, new clubs, new roads and new people.  But why does it take a new place to get us in to mood to explore?

Perhaps more importantly, what lessons have been learned through this period of forced transition and how can we apply them without having to relocate 200 miles away?

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Cycling Events: Bang For Your Buck? (Podcast #25)

Gran Fondo RegistrationHave you said “wow, that's crazy!” as you looked at an entry fee for a race or event?  I'm 100% sure you're not the only one to do so.  In this episode of the Tailwind Coaching Podcast, Coach Rob and his guest co-host for the evening talk about the concept of value for your dollar when it comes to racing, riding fondos and participating in charity events.  They'll discuss the concept of value for your dollar, and draw from real world experience of trundling through various organized events, races and fondos.  They'll opine on free water bottles, finishers medals and entry fees as they speculate where the entry fee money goes, how much goes to charity and ways organizers can make their events more appealing (and affordable) to the average rider.

As always, don't forget to rate the Tailwind Coaching Podcast on iTunes, and get the discussion from this week's show going on the Tailwind Coaching Facebook Page.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:59 — 50.3MB)

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Beginners Group Ride Skills (Podcast #17)

Group RidingWith the arrival of warm temperatures and sunshine, many people begin to get the itch for company on their rides.  Beginners and long time solo riders alike will begin to start searching out group rides.  But honestly, how many actually attend one of the gatherings?  Why don't more people try them out?  

In today's podcast, we'll talk about some of the obstacles beginners (or advanced riders new to the group riding scene) face, and ways to overcome them.  We'll also learn some ways to keep ourselves and our fellow group riders safe and happy on their rides.

We'll talk about:

  • Information you should know before the ride (speed, length, terrain, drop/no drop)
  • How to endear yourself to a new group (show up EARLY!)
  • Finding out information from the group before you leave the meeting area.
  • Learning the importance of communicating with the group.
  • Safe and predictable riding
  • Being able to take criticism if you make mistakes.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 41:05 — 37.6MB)

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Questions and comments are always welcome.  Remember to rate this podcast on iTunes.

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